Bowled over by brave decision
One super fund has decided to buck the age-based trend. more
Currency's super sting
Superannuation funds had a good year in 2009 with the
median-performing balanced option (where most people have their
money) returning 12.9 per cent, according to SuperRatings. more
Prune costs to grow
The superannuation industry says there is a retirement savings gap
- the gap between what we have saved and what we need for a
reasonable lifestyle in retirement - of almost $700 billion or
$73,000 per person. And it's getting bigger. more
Wary funds go back to basics
Capital stable fund managers have ditched the exotic hybrids that
typified the bull market. more
Consumers want accountability
Baby boomers are angry at the poor performance of super funds. more
Call for a fees crackdown
The wide range of super fund charges should be reviewed and exit
fees abolished. more
Dodgy brothers hit town
Beware of illegal early-release super schemes with high
commissions. more
Follow the fine line
Last week the government announced big increases in fines and goal
terms for those who undertake sharemarket-related misconduct. more
Timing critical amid falls
The GFC hangover continues to affect super members. more
Hark the golden gifts that grow
For less than $100 you can find presents that will appreciate over
time. Barbara Drury goes shopping. more
Sales culture to remain
What a disappointment the nine-month Ripoll inquiry into financial
planning has turned out to be for consumers. more
It pays to check on your super
Many employers are failing to meet their obligations to contribute
to employee retirement funds. more
More bang for your buck
With the Australian dollar riding high, plenty of overseas
destinations favoured by Australians are exceptional value. more
Legacy of plague proportions
Researcher Morningstar says the overwhelming majority of Australian
managed funds are very small, with about half of all Australian
funds having assets of less than $5 million. more
Lost super plan found wanting
Industry agrees the Government should get unclaimed cash but wants
a system to find the rightful owners. more
SUPERANNUATION
FACT SHEET
Top Ten Superannuation Questions
Lost superannuation, can I withdraw, what happens when I change job? Get started with our Top Ten Questions. more
Superannuation: the basics
Superannuation is a way of saving for your retirement. Both you and your employer can make contributions that accumulate over time and this money is then invested in shares, government bonds, property, or other appropriate investments. more
Superannuation: funds
The fund (sometimes called a "scheme" or "plan") is usually a trust fund. The trustee collects the superannuation contributions, invests them, and manages the distribution of the money. more
Regulation, complaints & disputes
What laws apply? The Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act regulates private superannuation funds and approved deposit funds. more
Superannuation: for the self-employed
Any super you arrange must rely solely on your own contributions, plus the increased value of the investments you choose. more
Withdrawing your superannuation
Generally you can withdraw your non-preserved contributions (ie money you have paid into your fund and not claimed a deduction for) at any time. However, more
Protecting superannuation
The accumulated money is kept in "trust". This means the money is not legally available for the employer to use. Funds are protected even if the company goes out of business. more
Superannuation: Changing jobs
When you change your job, don't forget the accumulated money in your superannuation fund. People think that they will get a cheque to cover this, more
